South County Fire Chief Shaughn Maxwell began leading Snohomish County’s largest fire agency in February 2025.

“In reflecting on why I am so proud to be a part of South County Fire, I determined that it’s our humans,” Maxwell said. “We have some of the most capable, compassionate, caring people I know. The exceptional service you provide stands as a testament to what we can achieve together, even as we face challenges ahead.”

Maxwell previously served as South County Fire’s Assistant Chief of EMS, Health and Safety. He started his career as a volunteer firefighter in Okanogan County in 1988, then worked as a wildland firefighter, EMT and paramedic before joining Snohomish County Fire District 1 in 1996, coming up through the ranks as local fire departments consolidated over the years.

Maxwell, who holds a Master of Science in Psychology, brings a passion for optimizing human performance and mental health in the fire service. He has twice been named one of the top EMS innovators in the nation and has been honored by the Congressional Fire Services Institute for excellence in EMS. He’s conducted research on optimizing human performance at TOPGUN and the U.S. Coast Guard Advanced Helicopter Rescue School and collaborated with NASA, FEMA, USFA and others to enhance the way firefighters help people through emergency services. He also spearheaded legislation that allowed community paramedicine in Washington state. Maxwell created South County Fire’s successful ACT program that teaches life-saving skills including CPR, AED, tourniquet and Narcan use in a one-hour class.

Maxwell was recognized by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) with the 2025 Medal of Meritorious Service.